While peacekeeping operations often spotlight boots on the ground, it is the behind-the-scenes professionals who keep the mission moving.

Among the 15 ADF members deployed to Operation Aslan – Australia’s contribution to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) – three Royal Australian Air Force aviators are quietly enabling one of the world’s largest peacekeeping efforts.

Stationed in Juba, South Sudan, Squadron Leader Dee Irwin, Flight Lieutenant Thomas Ure and Sergeant Michelle Carmona form a high-performing personnel capability team that ensures the Australian contingent is resourced, coordinated, and ready to deliver on its mandate.

Their work touches every aspect of the mission, from human resources management and logistics support to working alongside international counterparts, allowing Australia to integrate into the 73-nation force of 18,000 personnel.

“This deployment has been such a privilege, knowing you’re genuinely helping the people of South Sudan to hold the peace,” said Squadron Leader Irwin, who is on her sixth deployment and first under the UN banner. 

“Supporting the United Nations alongside such a dedicated group of Australian and international personnel is a deeply fulfilling posting.”

'Even the small tasks contribute to the wider mission of supporting peace in South Sudan.'

For Flight Lieutenant Ure, deployed for the first time since joining the RAAF in 2018, the experience has been both dynamic and eye-opening.

“The most enjoyable part is the adventure,” he said. 

“I’m rarely bound to my desk – I’m out supporting the Australian team and my UN section, making sure they have what they need to do their valuable work.”

Sergeant Carmona, nine months into her 12-month deployment, serves as the personal assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff – Operations at Force Headquarters.

“Even the small tasks contribute to the wider mission of supporting peace in South Sudan,” she said. 

“Keeping the information flowing and people where they need to be has really highlighted the importance of personnel capability roles in international operations.”

UNMISS was established to protect civilians, support the implementation of the peace agreement, monitor and investigate human rights violations, and enable the delivery of humanitarian assistance. The Australian contingent plays a vital role in this effort – not just through military liaison and operations, but through the strategic human capability that keeps the mission functioning.

As global peacekeeping evolves, so too does the recognition that capability is not just about combat – it is about coordination, care, and the quiet professionals who make it all possible.